Finishing Techniques for Mantels and Shelves
 

 

Our mantels and shelves are available in MDF, Birch and Oak. MDF (Medium Density Fiberboard) is made from wood fibers and is a great low cost alternative wood. Its hard surface resist dents and scratches and its low cost will save you money on your painted applications. Our birch mantels and shelves are made of clear birch wood with clear white pine moldings that can be either painted or stained. Oak mantels and shelves are made with clear red oak wood and red oak moldings, these can also be either painted or stained. Please view the different woods with the different finishes listed on our site for ideas. The wood and finish used in our photography are specified under the individual mantel and shelf images.
All WinterBrand mantels and shelves are shipped unfinished.
 
Wood Choices
Paintable
Stainable
MDF
X
Birch
X
X
Oak
X
X
   
  Painting:
 
Step 1 -
Choose the color of paint you wish to use.
 
Step 2 -
It is a good idea to paint a small portion of the back to make sure you are happy with the color you choose.
 
Step 3 -
 Mantels only, remove the scribe molding from the back or the inside of the mantel.
 
Step 4 -
Install the mantel or shelf. For mantels, fasten the scribe molding.
 
Step 5 -
 Fill all nail holes with putty or painter's caulk.
 
Step 6 -
Prime the mantel or shelf before you paint. Use either latex or oil base paint.
 
Step 7 -
Paint the mantel or shelf.
 
Step 8 -
If necessary, paint the mantel or shelf a second time.
     
  Clear Polyurethane Finish:
 
Step 1 -
Choose the polyurethane finish (satin, semi-gloss, gloss)
 
Step 2 -
It is a good idea to brush a small portion of the back with the polyurethane finish and let it dry to make sure you are happy with the outcome.
 
Step 3 -
 Mantels only, remove the scribe molding from the back or the inside of the mantel.
 
Step 4 -
Install the mantel or shelf. For mantels, fasten the scribe molding.
 
Step 5 -
 Fill all nail holes with putty to match the wood type.
 
Step 6 -
Brush polyurethane on the mantel or shelf and let dry.
 
Step 7 -
If necessary, brush polyurethane on a second time.
     
  Staining:
 
Step 1 -
Choose the stain finish you wish to use (our photographs illustrate Minwax Stains).
 
Step 2 -
It is a good idea to brush a small portion of the back with the stain finish and let it dry to make sure you are happy with the outcome. If you will be using a polyurethane finish after the stain is applied, please apply the polyurethane also and let it dry to make sure you are happy with the overall outcome before you start on the finished side of the mantel or shelf.
 
Step 3 -
 Mantels only, remove the scribe molding from the back or the inside of the mantel.
 
Step 4 -
Install the mantel or shelf. For mantels, fasten the scribe molding.
 
Step 5 -
 Stain the mantel or shelf and let dry.
 
Step 6 -
Fill all nail holes with putty to match the stain.
 
Step 7 -
Brush polyurethane on the mantel or shelf and let dry.
 
Step 8 -
Brush polyurethane on a second time if you feel necessary.
     
   
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